Can Mattress Covers Be Washed? A Practical Guide to Care
Learn how to wash mattress covers safely, including care labels, fabric variations, stain pretreatment, and drying methods. Practical guidance from Mattress Buyer Guide helps homeowners keep covers clean without harming mattresses.
You can wash most mattress covers safely at home by checking the care label, sorting by fabric, pretreating stains, and using a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Avoid bleach unless allowed, don’t crowd the washer, and dry on low heat or air dry. This guide covers common fabrics, exceptions, and warranty considerations.
Understanding Mattress Covers: What They Do and Why They Need Care
Mattress covers act as a barrier between you and the mattress, protecting against stains, allergens, and normal wear. They come in a range of fabrics—from breathable cotton blends to synthetic polyesters and waterproof protections. The Mattress Buyer Guide team notes that a properly cared-for cover can extend mattress life and reduce the frequency of deep cleanings. In 2026, many households rely on a cover as a first line of defense against spills, sweat, and pet accidents. The right care routine depends on fabric, construction, and whether the cover is a simple fabric weave, a waterproof layer, or a memory-foam-backed quilt. Start by identifying your cover’s material and checking the label for any washing restrictions. This foundation informs all downstream steps and helps you avoid shrinking, color fading, or losing elasticity over time.
Fabric Variations and Care Implications
Different fabrics demand different handling. Cotton blends generally tolerate warm washes, while microfiber and polyester can tolerate cold cycles with less risk of shrinkage. Bamboo and viscose blends may need gentler handling to preserve softness. Waterproof covers or those with a membrane often require cool water and delicate cycles to protect the protective layer from delamination. According to Mattress Buyer Guide, selecting the correct cycle and avoiding high heat reduces the chance of damage. If you’re unsure, err on the side of gentleness and wash smaller batches to test how the fabric responds. Keeping a small log of wash settings that work best for each fabric type is a simple yet powerful maintenance habit.
Reading the Care Label: Decode Symbols and Instructions
Care labels are your best friend when washing mattress covers. Symbols indicate water temperature, cycle type, and whether bleach is permitted. Common icons include a tub for machine washing, a hand for hand wash only, a triangle for bleach, and a square with a circle for tumble drying. If a label lacks explicit guidance, default to cold water and a gentle cycle to minimize fiber stress. Avoid hot water on fragile fabrics, since it increases shrinkage risk. The Mattress Buyer Guide recommends testing a small, inconspicuous area before laundering the entire cover to ensure colorfastness and size stability.
Pretreating Common Stains Before Washing
Pretreat stains promptly with a mild, enzyme-based stain remover or a paste of baking soda and water. Gently blot—don’t rub—to lift the stain without pushing it deeper into the fibers. For organic spills like coffee or wine, a brief soak in cold water with a touch of mild detergent can improve results. After pretreatment, wash on a cold or warm cycle according to the label, using a gentle detergent. This step helps prevent set-in stains and prolongs the life of the fabric. Mattress Buyer Guide emphasizes avoiding aggressive scrubbing that can fray fibers and compromise water barriers.
Machine Washing: Settings That Preserve Fabric and Elastic
Most mattress covers wash best on a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Use a small-to-medium load to prevent snagging or tangling. If your washer has a high-efficiency (HE) setting, use the recommended amount of detergent to avoid residue buildup. Avoid bleach unless the label specifies it’s safe for the fabric. Consider placing the cover in a mesh laundry bag to reduce agitation on delicate finishes. After washing, promptly transfer to drying or air-drying to minimize wrinkles and keep elasticity intact.
Handling Waterproof and Protective Covers
Waterproof or allergen-protective covers require careful handling to preserve the protective membrane. Use cold water and a delicate cycle, and avoid fabric softeners or harsh chemicals that can degrade waterproof layers. If the cover has a zipper, ensure it is closed to prevent snagging. Rinse thoroughly to remove any detergent residues that could irritate skin or reduce breathability. Mattress Buyer Guide notes that frequent washing of waterproof covers can shorten their lifespan; therefore, wash only when needed and line-dry when possible.
Drying Mattress Covers Safely: Dryers vs Air Drying
Air drying is the gentlest method and helps preserve shape and elasticity. If you use a dryer, choose a low-heat or no-heat setting and remove promptly to minimize wrinkling. Overheating can shrink fabrics or damage elastic edges. For best results, lay the cover flat or hang it to dry, ensuring it remains free of direct heat sources. Some fabrics respond better to line drying, especially delicate blends. If you must use a dryer, stop early and finish the job on a drying rack to prevent heat damage.
Special Materials: Bamboo, Silk, Cotton, Microfiber, Polyester Blends
Silk blends, bamboo fabrics, and other delicate fibers require extra care; when in doubt, pick the gentlest cycle and cold water. Cotton is resilient but can shrink; microfiber and polyester blends generally tolerate machine washing but may become fuzzy if washed too aggressively. For blends, follow the most conservative setting from the fabric mix. Mattress Buyer Guide reminds readers to test heat and wash conditions on a small fabric swatch before laundering the entire cover.
Washing Frequency and Maintenance Tips
How often you wash depends on use, allergies, and household members. Regular laundering every 1–3 months is a practical baseline, with more frequent washes for households with kids, pets, or allergy sufferers. Between washes, wipe the surface with a damp cloth and air out the room to cut down on body oils and sweat that accumulate on fabric. Using a mattress protector under the cover can reduce wash frequency by catching most stains and oils, keeping the cover cleaner for longer.
When to Skip Washing and How to Decontaminate (Allergies, Pets)
If the cover smells or shows visible stains, wash it. If it’s recently purchased or still within warranty, follow label directions to avoid voiding terms. For routine refresh without a full wash, spot-clean with a mild detergent solution and allow to air dry. For severe odors from pets or humidity, a gentle wash cycle is usually necessary, but avoid aggressive whitening agents that could degrade fabric over time. Mattress Buyer Guide advises weighing the cost of a replacement cover against the risk of damaging the mattress with frequent washing.
Extending Mattress Cover Lifespan: Detergent, Temperature, and Care Habits
Use mild, fragrance-free detergents and avoid chlorine bleach unless confirmed safe by the label. Keep water temperatures cold to moderate; hot water accelerates fiber wear and color fading. Rotate washing tasks with other laundry to prevent repeated stress on a single cover. Drying decisions should align with fabric type and care label guidance. Consistently following these routines helps protect the cover and the underlying mattress over years of use.
Practical Troubleshooting: What to Do When Colors Fade or Shrink
If colors fade after washing, rewash with a color-safe detergent and a shorter cycle using cold water. If shrinkage occurs, lay the cover flat or lightly stretch it during drying to regain shape, avoiding heat that could set folds. For persistent issues, consult the label instructions or contact the manufacturer. Consistent, gentle care reduces the chance of damage and helps maintain a fresh look and fit.
Tools & Materials
- Detergent(Mild, fragrance-free preferred; use the label-recommended amount)
- Stain remover (optional)(Enzyme-based preferred for organic stains)
- Washing machine (front- or top-load) with gentle cycle(HE if applicable; choose cold-to-warm water)
- Mesh laundry bag (optional)(Prevents snagging for delicate fabrics)
- Drying rack or clothesline(Air drying is best for longevity; use indoors or outdoors away from direct sun)
- Clothes dryer (optional, low heat only)(If used, set to low heat and monitor closely)
Steps
Estimated time: 60-90 minutes
- 1
Check the care label
Read the manufacturer’s instructions on the label to confirm washing allowed, water temperature, and any special restrictions. If the label is unclear, default to a cold, gentle cycle to minimize risk. This step prevents damage and preserves warranties.
Tip: When unsure, test a small corner first and avoid high heat. - 2
Sort and pretreat
Separate covers by fabric type and pretreat any visible stains with a mild remover or paste. Do not mix heavily soiled covers with lighter loads. Pretreating helps lift stains before agitation begins.
Tip: Avoid rubbing aggressively; blot stains instead to prevent fiber damage. - 3
Load the washer properly
Place the cover in the washer with enough room to move, ideally with like fabrics. Use a mesh bag if available to reduce abrasion. Use the maximum recommended water temperature from the care label within cold-to-warm range.
Tip: Too full a washer can cause uneven cleaning and increase wear. - 4
Add detergent and run a gentle cycle
Add a mild detergent and run a short, gentle cycle on cold water. Avoid overloading the machine, which can prevent thorough rinsing and leave detergent residues.
Tip: Measure detergent carefully to prevent residue buildup on fabric. - 5
Rinse thoroughly
Ensure a thorough rinse to remove all soap residues, which can irritate skin and degrade fabric over time. If your washer has an extra rinse option, use it.
Tip: Residue can cause stiffness and reduce breathability. - 6
Remove promptly to minimize wrinkling
As soon as the cycle ends, remove the cover to prevent setting wrinkles or creases. Delayed removal can make reshaping harder.
Tip: Shake gently to relax fibers before laying flat. - 7
Choose a drying method
Air dry on a rack or clothesline; avoid direct sun for dark colors. If using a dryer, select a low-heat setting and remove promptly to prevent shrinkage.
Tip: For waterproof covers, air drying is safest to preserve membranes. - 8
Check fit before reassembly
Once dry, test the cover on the mattress to ensure it fits snugly and doesn't bunch. A proper fit maintains comfort and protection.
Tip: If it’s tight, avoid forcing it on; consider additional gentle stretching. - 9
Reassemble with care
Reattach any zippers and ensure the edges are straight. A properly fitted cover prevents wear along seams.
Tip: Avoid placing heavy items on the cover during initial use after washing. - 10
Inspect for issues
Look for fading, shrinkage, or reduced elasticity. Note any concerns for future wash cycles and adjust settings accordingly.
Tip: Document what works for future reference. - 11
Schedule regular maintenance
Set reminders for routine washing based on use and household factors. Regular care reduces the need for deeper cleans.
Tip: Keep a wash log to track what works best for each fabric type. - 12
Store properly after drying
Fold or roll the cover and store it in a clean, dry place away from sunlight to prevent discoloration and odors.
Tip: Avoid plastic bags that trap moisture; use breathable storage options.
FAQ
Can all mattress covers be washed in a machine?
Most mattress covers can be machine-washed, but always check the care label for temperature, cycle type, and bleach guidance. Some waterproof or delicate fabrics may require hand washing or air drying.
Most covers can be machine-washed, but always check the label first and follow the recommended cycle and temperature.
Should I wash my mattress cover with sheets or separately?
You can wash with sheets if fabric types are compatible and the load isn’t overloaded. Separate heavier materials to prevent excessive abrasion and ensure a thorough clean.
You can wash with sheets if they’re similar fabrics and the load isn’t crowded.
Can a waterproof mattress cover be tumble dried?
Only if the label permits it and you use a low-heat setting. High heat can damage the waterproof layer and reduce effectiveness over time.
Only dry on low heat if allowed by the label.
What temperature is safest for most covers?
Cold to warm water is generally safest for most fabrics. It reduces shrinkage and preserves color and elasticity.
Cold to warm water is usually best for most covers.
What if the label says dry clean only?
If the label says dry clean only, follow that instruction. Do not attempt to machine wash, as it could damage the fabric or membrane and void warranties.
If it says dry clean only, don’t machine wash—follow the label.
How often should I wash a mattress cover?
Aim for every 1–3 months, more often if you have allergies, pets, or children. Regular washing reduces buildup of oils, sweat, and dust mites.
Most people wash every 1–3 months, more with pets or allergies.
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Highlights
- Read care labels before washing.
- Use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent.
- Dry fabrics according to label guidance to avoid shrinkage.
- Pretreat stains and avoid harsh chemicals on delicate covers.
- Protect mattress longevity with regular, mindful maintenance.